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Occupancy sensors: Dim to 30% when no cars/people detected, full brightness on motion
Daylight harvesting: Reduce output near windows and open-air edges during daytime
Time scheduling: Lower levels during 2am-5am low-traffic periods
Zoned control: Different levels for different floors based on occupancy
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Parking Garage LED Lighting Design Guide: Levels, Fixtures & Code
Complete guide to parking garage LED lighting design. IES foot-candle requirements, fixture selection, controls, and code compliance.
February 28, 2026Auvolar Engineering Team10 min read
Parking Garage LED Lighting Requirements
Parking garages present unique lighting challenges: low ceilings, concrete surfaces, vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and 24/7 operation in many cases.
IES Foot-Candle Requirements
| Area | Minimum (fc) | Recommended (fc) |
|---|---|---|
| General parking | 1.0 | 5.0 |
| Ramps/entrances | 5.0 | 10.0 |
| Stairwells | 5.0 | 10.0 |
| Entry transition (day) | 50 | 50+ |
| Pedestrian walkways | 2.0 | 5.0 |
Best Fixtures for Parking Garages
[Garage/Canopy Light](/p/garage-canopy-light-an-cn) — Our #1 recommendation for parking structures:- 40W-100W options for different ceiling heights
- Surface mount or pendant mount
- IP65 rated for open-air garages
- 0-10V dimming for occupancy-based control
- IP65 sealed against moisture and dust
- Perfect for unconditioned garages
- 4ft and 8ft lengths
Control Strategies (Save 40-60% More)
Code Compliance
- ASHRAE 90.1: Requires lighting controls in parking garages (occupancy sensors + daylight controls)
- IBC: Emergency lighting with battery backup required at exits
- ADA: Minimum light levels at accessible parking spaces and routes
ROI Example: 500-Space Parking Garage
| Item | Old HID System | New LED + Controls |
|---|---|---|
| Fixtures | 200 × 175W HPS | 200 × 60W LED |
| Total wattage | 35kW | 12kW (66% less) |
| With controls (avg) | 35kW | 6kW (83% less) |
| Annual energy cost | $36,800 | $6,300 |
| Annual savings | — | $30,500 |
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